Mercedes-Benz is on the path of plug-in hybrids with the GLE 350de, which combines electric driving with diesel drive; theoretical emissions are only 29 g / km.
At the time of writing this test, the emissions mean that the state will be satisfied with $ 783 purchase tax, while regular powered GLEs will owe amounts of 24 to 58 grand (!) This makes the 320 hp and 700 Nm strong plug-in just a bit cheaper than the entry-level diesel 300d, which squeezes 245 hp and 500 Nm from its four-cylinder. The 350th also has that diesel engine, which is a rarity for a hybrid. Mercedes combines it in this case with a 136 hp electric motor and a battery pack of no less than 31.2 kWh. That is unprecedentedly large for a plug-in and it ensures that this very heavy, high SUV can drive almost 100 kilometers electrically in practice. Of course, it does not have to go faster than 100 km / h, but this still means that you can make a lot of journeys completely electrically. The GLE can even use the fast charger for a small additional charge, although its added value is limited with plug-in hybrids.
The GLE is very comfortable, thanks in part to the optional Airmatic air suspension on the test sample. It offers an abundance of comfort. Sitting high on the fantastic, but also optional Multicontour seats, you hardly notice that the kilometers fly by hundreds at a time. At the same time, the Mercedes communicates reasonably with its driver, the car remains fairly flat in the bend and can be placed quite precisely. Yet it is abundantly clear that the GLE is a true mastodon. It feels like a huge, unyielding tank, which is not surprising given its weight of more than 2.5 tons. Thanks to the low CO2 emissions, the motor vehicle tax is still manageable for the time being, but that mass is certainly noticeable. Still, the GLE is very smooth, with the enormous torque providing a nice push in the back. The 9G-Tronic automatic transmission works very well, but the GLE seems to settle every now and then and then jerks off its place.
Thoughtful and logical
The MBUX system is possibly the best infotainment currently available. It really offers everything: a super fast touchscreen, crystal clear screens, endless configuration options and numerous operating options. The clever thing is that this does not result in an unclear mess. A short study is necessary, but after that the system turns out to be very well thought-out and logically arranged. However, it is not immune from the annoyances that seem to go hand in hand with advancing technology. Many a conversation with a passenger is interrupted by a friendly “What do you want to do?” and sometimes it takes a while to find a certain setting.
The rest of the GLE interior is also beautiful. Design, use of materials and build quality are beyond any doubt. The design buttons for, among other things, the climate control feel the only slightly more vulnerable, but are very pleasant to handle. Mercedes is also far when it comes to driver assistance systems. If desired, the car can change lanes itself and roll with the traffic jam. Speaking of options: let’s swallow that the price list of the Mercedes-Benz GLE has no less than 69 pages. Of course this is due to the large engine range, but also due to the endless option list. Extras worth no less than 30 mille were screwed on and to the test car.